Numerical Simulations of Equatorial Spread F Using ALTAIR Incoherent Backscatter Measured Electron Density Profiles From the 17 July 1979 DNA Kwajalein Campaign.
Abstract
Using electron density profiles measured by the ALTAIR radar on 17 July 1979, we have performed global large scale size numerical simulations of the nonlinear evolution of the collisional Rayleigh-Taylor instability in the equatorial ionosphere. The ALTAIR profiles were taken approximately four and one-half hours prior to the onset of equatorial spread F. Using 5% amplitude sinusoidal initial perturbations in our numerical simulations, we find fully developed spread F bubbles (plumes) on time scales of approximately one-half hour for both small (8 km) and large (200 km) horizontal scale lengths. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 03, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA092961
Entities
People
- Sidney L. Ossakow
- Steven T.P. Zalesak
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory